US
Tops

TOPS El Chete Fixed Blade Machete

  • 12 inch blade, drop point shape
  • 1095HC steel, flat edge
  • Full tang, canvas Micarta handle
  • Kydex sheath, dangler carry, rotating clip
  • Ambidextrous, made in USA
  • Hand wash only

Last refreshed Sep 28, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.

Our verdict

A fixed blade machete in high carbon steel for chopping, clearing and camp work, with a sheath that offers two ways to carry it. High carbon steel needs hand washing and drying.

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ASIN: B0BTZ29CCHCategory: Machetes

Colors Available

Black/GreenGreen/Black

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Overview

A full tang blade of high carbon steel runs through the Micarta handle of this TOPS machete, giving a one-piece strength for chopping. It ships with a Kydex sheath that carries on a dangler or a rotating clip.

A fixed blade has no hinge to fail, and the long cutting edge handles brush, camp tasks and bushcraft. High carbon steel is not stainless, and the care note calls for hand washing, so expect to wipe and oil it.

Who it's for

An outdoors user clearing trails and processing firewood who accepts the upkeep that this alloy demands. People who want a pocketable knife, or who leave tools wet, should choose something else.

Pros and cons

Pros
  • Full tang construction
  • High carbon steel blade
  • Two carry options on the sheath
  • Made in the USA
Cons
  • Hand wash only
  • Overall length not separately listed
  • High carbon steel needs rust care

Performance notes

With a full tang the steel extends through the handle, which spreads shock from chopping across the whole knife instead of the grip joint. The flat edge on a drop point shape gives strength at the tip and holds up to heavy use. High carbon steel takes a sharp edge but rusts if left wet.

Specifications

BrandTops
Dimensions & fit
Blade Length12 inches
Hand OrientationAmbidextrous
Item weight2.6 pounds
Cutting edge11.38 inches
Construction & materials
Blade Material1095HC steel
ColorBlack and green, midnight bronze finish
Handle MaterialCanvas Micarta
Other details
Blade ShapeDrop point
Blade EdgeFlat
Special FeaturesFull tang
Product Care InstructionsHand wash only

Closest rivals on specs

Condor 61711 Tactical Machete with Walnut Handle
  • Item weight 2.6 vs 1.5 pounds (+73%)
Condor Tactical Machete with Micarta Handle
  • Blade Length 12 vs 19.1 inches (-37%)
  • Item weight 2.6 vs 3 pounds (-13%)
Cold Steel CS-MA-AXIS Axis Machete 18 in
  • Item weight 2.6 vs 1.4 pounds (+86%)
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Frequently asked questions

How long is the cutting edge and how heavy is the TOPS El Chete?

The title gives an 11.38 inch cutting edge on the 12 inch blade, and the item weight is 2.6 pounds.

What sheath comes with the TOPS El Chete?

A Kydex sheath, with a dangler carry and a rotating carry clip named in the title.

Is the TOPS El Chete a folding machete?

No. It is a fixed blade with a full tang.

Can I put the TOPS El Chete in the dishwasher?

No. The care instructions say hand wash only.